Obsolescence Forensic Report

Forensics of obsolescence confronts us with the results of today's consumers' electronics industry model. By tearing apart broken everyday objects we uncover key topics such as systems thinking, supply chains, intellectual models, reverse engineering or programmed obsolescence. On top of it, by using a hands-on approach we introduce the use of fundamental technology hacking concepts: datasheets, multimeters, power supplies, electronic tools. We will document our findings by writing a "forensic report" of each artefact.

Previous report examples

• iRobot Roomba
• Princess Induction Cooker
• iMac Destructor
• APPLE Powerbook
• Hitachi TV
• LCD monitors
• Drip Coffee Maker
• EagleEye
• Printer
• Blender
• 3D Printer
• Screen
• Microwave
• BOSE and Intercom

Identity of the reporting agency	MDEF
Case identifier	Forensics of the Obsolescence
Identity of the submitter	Someone at the Fab Lab
Date of receipt	15/10/2024
Date of report	19/10/2024
Identity and signature of the examiner	Your names

Examination

Descriptive list of items submitted for examination, including serial number, brand and model

Forensic Questions

• What does it do?
• How does it work?
• How it's built? Why it failed, or it wasn't used anymore?

Steps taken

Research we carried out, i.e. Separating the components by type, searching for specific parts datasheets. Link datasheets and other relative documents.

💡We recommend designing small experiments to test diferent functionalities of the machine.

Here's an example of how to design an experiment to learn if a toaster is broken, following the scientific method:

1. Identify a Problem or Question:
   Example: Is the toaster broken because it doesn’t toast bread?

2. Formulate a Hypothesis:
   Example: If the toaster is functional, then it will toast bread when plugged in and turned on.

3. Design the Experiment:
   Example:

   • Plug the toaster into a working outlet.
   • Insert a slice of bread.
   • Set the toaster to a normal toasting setting.
   • Press the lever to start the toasting process.

4. Conduct the Experiment:
   Example:

   • Perform the steps: plug in, insert bread, set the level, and press the lever.
   • Observe whether the toaster operates (e.g., heats up, bread darkens).

5. Analyze Results:
   Example:

   • If the toaster heats up and toasts the bread, it’s functional.
   • If the bread remains unchanged, the toaster may be broken.

6. Draw Conclusions:
   Example:

   • If the bread is toasted, the toaster is working.
   • If not, further investigation (e.g., checking the outlet or internal wiring) is needed to confirm it's broken.

7. Report Findings:
   Example:

   • Document that the toaster failed to toast the bread and may require repair or replacement.

🤔 You can also perform experiments to test specific parts or features. Here’s a version of the experiment focused on testing if the toaster cable is broken:

1. Identify a Problem or Question:
   Example: Is the toaster’s cable broken, causing the toaster not to work?

2. Formulate a Hypothesis:
   Example: If the toaster cable is functional, the toaster will receive power and operate when plugged in.

3. Design the Experiment:
   Example:

   • Plug the toaster into a working outlet.
   • Use a voltage tester to check if power is flowing through the cable.
   • Observe the toaster’s lights or any indicators of power when the toaster is turned on.

4. Conduct the Experiment:
   Example:

   • Plug in the toaster.
   • Use a voltage tester on the plug and along the cable to see if current flows.
   • Check for any signs of power (lights, sound, heating).

5. Analyze Results:
   Example:

   • If power is detected and the toaster shows signs of operation, the cable is fine.
   • If no power is detected or the toaster doesn’t show signs of power, the cable may be broken.

6. Draw Conclusions:
   Example:

   • If the voltage tester shows no current or the toaster doesn't power on, the cable is likely broken.
   • If current flows and the toaster operates, the issue lies elsewhere.

7. Report Findings:
   Example:

   • Document whether the cable is transmitting power or if it needs replacement due to failure.

This experiment helps pinpoint whether the cable is the cause of the toaster’s malfunction.

Results

Answers to the forensic questions. i.e. How many motors we find inside, does it contain a computer or microcontroller? Did the appliance failed, why?

Conclusions

A summary of the overall report, in particular about the results.

Opinions

What do you learn? What surprised you?

Example images